A bit about me
I have experienced the profound changes possible when self-exploration is facilitated by the presence, mindfulness, and compassion of another. Therapy can deepen our relationship with ourselves to allow for more contentment, belonging, and fulfillment. Whatever brings you to counseling, I will meet here.
For me, becoming a counselor integrates purpose, meaning, and personhood. Much of what I bring to therapy is informed by the near decade I spent as a Buddhist monk both in the U.S. and overseas in Taiwan. While monastic life is quite varied, for me the continuous self-development, study, and mindfulness practice were hallmarks of my time. This deeply transformative and dedicated experience continues to unfold in meaning and purpose today.
On pilgrimage in India, 2013.
I was born here in the Willamette Valley of Oregon, falling in deep connection with the lands and waters that make this home so special. Before and after my time in the monastery, I worked for a decade with land conservation organizations in the state called land trusts who help landowners conserve and manage special landscapes.
After leaving the monastic life, I wished for a profession that allows for the best of what I can offer while making a meaningful difference for others. Counseling is this vocation for me.
I graduated from Portland State University with a master’s degree in counseling focusing on relationships and individuals, and also have a master’s in community planning from the University of Oregon. Concurrent with the accredited counseling program at PSU, I also received extensive training in Gestalt therapy, somatic psychotherapy, Emotion-Focused therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in the Portland area. I completed my year-long internship at the Mindful Experiential Therapy Approaches (M.E.T.A.) Counseling Clinic, am a National Certified Counselor, and a Licensed Professional Counselor with the Oregon Board of Licensed Counselors and Therapists. In 2021, I also completed a 5-month training in Buddhist Psychology from Spirit Rock Meditation Center with Matthew Brensilver, PhD.
I have also served on the board of the Oregon Counseling Association and the Oregon Association for Contextual Behavioral Sciences, and am a member of the American Counseling Association, the Association for Contextual Behavioral Sciences, Existential-Humanistic Northwest, and the Association for the Advancement of Gestalt Therapy.